Old Wesley RFC was delighted to welcome members, sponsors, business leaders and friends of the club to Donnybrook on Friday, 23 October, for the annual Business Lunch. Hosted by Club President Wayne Sheridan, the event brought the wider Old Wesley family together for an afternoon of networking, conversation and celebration of the values that have defined the club for generations.
A special word of thanks goes to event sponsor Clover, whose support helped make the occasion possible. Clover’s partnership with Old Wesley reflects a shared commitment to helping businesses, individuals and communities thrive.
Following the networking reception and lunch, former Old Wesley player and international referee Alan Lewis led a Q&A with Lara Byrne of Clover. Lara spoke about Old Wesley’s strong sense of belonging and the importance of team sport and community at a time when many people can feel disconnected. Her remarks were a timely reminder that Old Wesley is much more than a rugby club: it is a place where young players form lifelong friendships and people build valuable relationships on and off the field.
Alan then spoke with former Old Wesley Mini Rugby player and current Leinster, Ireland and British & Irish Lions international Andrew Porter. Their conversation traced Andrew’s remarkable journey from the mini rugby pitches of Old Wesley to the highest levels of the professional game.
For the players, current members, sponsors, former players, parents, volunteers and business leaders in the room, Andrew’s story was a powerful reminder of the impact a community club can have on young people. It embodies the pathway Old Wesley seeks to provide: a place where friendships are formed, values are learned and ambitions are nurtured from an early age. An audience Q&A followed, giving guests the opportunity to hear further insights from one of Ireland’s leading rugby players.
Old Wesley would like to thank Clover for sponsoring the lunch, Alan Lewis for guiding the discussions, Andrew Porter for sharing his experiences, and Lara Byrne and the team at Clover for their valued support not just as business lunch sponsor but for supporting the development of Mini, Girls and Youth Development.
Most importantly, thank you to all our club sponsors and to everyone who attended and helped make the 2026 Business Lunch such a memorable occasion. We look forward to building on its success and continuing to strengthen the connections that make Old Wesley truly A Club for Life.
Photo – Old Wesley President Wayne Sheridan; Lara Byrne of Clover, the event sponsor and Old Wesley Mini and Youth Development sponsor; host Alan Lewis; and special guest Andrew Porter at the Old Wesley Business Lunch 2026.
